Actor Colman Domingo, renowned for his distinctive fashion sense, shared his reflections on attending the Winter Olympics, highlighting the emotional intensity of the event. During his visit to Milan, the host city for the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games, he engaged with the Olympic spirit firsthand, supported by his partnership with Omega, the Official Timekeeper of the Winter Olympics.
Experiencing the Olympic Atmosphere in Person
Domingo expressed deep appreciation for seeing the Olympic competitions live rather than through a screen. Watching the Women’s Short Track Speed Skating, he was struck by the intensity of the event. He explained that being physically present at the Olympics creates a powerful emotional connection among spectators and athletes alike.
“This is a person’s chance. They’ve been training for years. So it was beautiful, because as a spectator, you realise you’re connected to everyone. You’re rooting for your country but also rooting for everyone. For me, that’s the greatest part of the Olympics,”
he shared.
Discovering the Unique Side of Milan
Though familiar with Milan from frequent visits for fashion and professional commitments, Domingo emphasized how the city had grown on him through these Olympic experiences. He described Milan not as just a place of famous landmarks like the Duomo, but as a hub of artisans and textile workers who bring originality and character to the city. Walking through the design district, he connected with the craftsmanship found in the textiles and tile work, remarking that Milan reveals itself through exploration rather than immediate impressions.
Memories Made at His First Olympic Games
Attending the Olympics for the first time left a lasting impression on Domingo. He reflected on the historical echoes the Games carry, citing iconic moments such as Jesse Owens’ performances, while highlighting the significance of witnessing the host city’s energy during the event. This multifaceted experience, he noted, adds a memorable dimension to the understanding of both the Olympics and the community that embraces it.
Handling Pressure: Advice from Stage to Sports
With extensive experience in live theatre, Domingo offered practical advice to athletes facing pre-performance nerves. He stressed the importance of creating mental space by disconnecting from distractions, suggesting methods like listening to music, taking walks, and deep breathing to ground oneself. He likened this process to the theatre tradition of a “half-hour call,” a private time to focus solely on the upcoming performance and detach from outside influences.
The Universal Appeal Behind the Olympic Story
Domingo reflected on why the Winter Olympic Games resonate so broadly across the world. He highlighted the core human story—the dedication and teamwork athletes embody while competing against strong opponents with their own unique narratives.
“In those moments, I think you’re not only cheering for them, you’re cheering for yourself. It’s like you’re cheering for humanity and saying that we can do this together,”
he explained. He suggested that the Olympics offer a hopeful mirror, inspiring people to embody the best qualities showcased by the athletes and envision a better global community.
Omega’s Role as the Official Timekeeper
As a Friend of the Brand, Domingo praised Omega’s commitment to the Olympics and the precision required through its role as Official Timekeeper. He described feeling part of a family, valuing the dedication of the watchmakers he met at Omega’s Swiss factory.
“Everyone cares so much. Every watchmaker cares about the legacy and what they’re doing. I didn’t realize it until I became a brand ambassador, how much they care about what they do,”
Domingo remarked, highlighting the brand’s passion and tradition tied to the event.
Personal Style Reflected Through Timepieces
Known for his impeccable style, Domingo shared what he seeks in a watch. He appreciates slim, elegant designs that feel both classic and sporty, able to accompany him throughout a varied day. Specifically, he expressed admiration for the Omega Constellation Manhattan from 1982 and hopes for its return. With a smaller wrist, he values a timepiece that balances sophistication with a readiness for action, embodying both grace and durability.
